According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s Survey of Business Owners (SBO) benchmark (2012, conducted every five years), there were 2.52 million veteran majority-owned businesses, including employers and non-employers. These firms collectively represented a substantial share of U.S. business activity, including receipts, employment, and payroll.

This section is presented as historic context. For the most current federal series, researchers typically reference newer Census/ABS releases and SBA research updates.

Veteran-owned businesses are meaningful economic actors—job creators, local market stabilizers, and community anchors. Yet veterans can face unique barriers in entrepreneurship, including capital access, procurement complexity, and network gaps. National Invest In Veterans Week® exists to elevate veteran entrepreneurship and support participation through public awareness, civic recognition, and practical resources.

• Support veteran-owned businesses through purchasing and referrals
• Promote veteran-owned businesses via social sharing (e.g., #NationalInvestInVeteransWeek / #InvestInVeteransWeek)
• Encourage workshops and skill-building for aspiring veteran entrepreneurs
• Partner with a veteran-owned business to help tell their story
• Nurture veteran startups via grants, fundraisers, services, and recognition
• Host veteran business gatherings (virtual or in-person)
• Mentor veteran entrepreneurs with guidance and introductions

Interactive Veteran Investment Return Calculator
This educational tool models how public investment in military service can translate into long-term economic contribution when veterans become business owners or community leaders. Inputs include service duration, training cost assumptions, and illustrative post-service business output. ⚠️ Educational Use Only

Results are illustrative, policy-level estimates. They vary materially by industry, geography, firm size, and timeframe. This tool is not financial, legal, or investment advice and should not be used to make investment decisions.